Happy to be Anywhere…Writing

The holidays are in full swing and as the end of the year approaches (or more accurately – comes bearing down on us like a semi on a one-lane road), I’ve found myself taking stock of where things are in my small world. I started out writing this post about how there just doesn’t seem to be enough time to do everything I want to do (writing, shopping, writing, wrapping, baking, writing, decorating, writing), but then realized how lucky I am to be overwhelmed by it all. As the immortal Keith Richards once said, “Happy to be here. Happy to be anywhere” (or something like that).

I decided it was important to take stock of what this year has been for me and how grateful I am for it. Through the ups and downs of everyday life, there is always the constant of family and friends. And if one teenager is a little “moody” one week, another will be more helpful than usual (or at least – didn’t complain). There will always be worry and sometimes grief, but thankfully, it is balanced by joy and laughter. That is a gift.

I worry often about not spending enough time doing whatever it is I think I should be doing. One of those things is writing. I do work on my writing often and even when I’m not writing, ideas and plot are swirling around in my head. Still, I would like it to be more often. I’m hopeful that will be the case next year. Even so, I am grateful the next novel in my Cancini series is nearly done. About 3/4 of the editing revisions are complete and I expect the rest to be done soon. (My editor is awesome and I can’t thank her enough!) I also can’t wait to get the new book to the many readers who’ve been asking for it. And the third in the series is under way! Again, I’m grateful to family and friends for all their support of all my writing.

This year has brought more involvement in the local writing community (beautiful Richmond). Volunteering with the James River Writers is not just rewarding but also gives me the opportunity to meet and mingle with other writers and readers. Bonus!

Lastly, I’ve been amazed at how my world has grown. I’ve discovered friends and followers in Brazil, Mexico, Ireland, England, Canada, across the U.S. and more. I’m so thankful for them and all those who’ve read my first novel. A GUILTY MIND continues to find new readers and I believe I have word of mouth, reviews, and many friends to thank.

So thank you all for everything. Here’s to an amazing 2014 and the year to come. Cheers!